Sterilizing Ovens/Tunnels and Standards

Sterilizing Tunnels are similar to Laminar Airflow Devices. They utilize unidirectional airflow supplied by HEPA/ULPA filters. The HEPA filters are of a special type to withstand sterilizing temperatures exceeding 300oC. This type of airflow design is used to achieve ISO 14644-1 class 5 and cleaner. Devices with this airflow design provide a local zone in a controlled area to protect the most critical operations. Sterilizing ovens utilize HEPA filters that are also designed to withstand high temperatures for sterilizing. The temperature is generally lower as the residence time in the oven is longer. For this reason it is important to consider carefully the rationale for challenging the filters with oil during a leak test.